Tourism PACA / South

7-day vacation on the French Riviera: sea, hilltop villages, and fragrances—here is the complete itinerary

The French Riviera is all about the light, the unreal shades of blue, the colorful facades, and the narrow streets filled with the scent of perfume. Over the course of 7 days, you’ll alternate between swimming, visiting hilltop villages, taking beautiful walks, and exploring must-see museums—all with realistic travel times, lunch breaks, and dinner around 8 p.m. every evening. We start in Nice (an ideal base thanks to the airport and the TER/Tram network), and explore as far as Antibes, Cannes, Grasse, Saint-Paul-de-Vence, Monaco, and Èze. Each day ends with specific addresses and the nearest train station or transportation option. To help you plan or adjust your itinerary, links to official tourist offices and transportation networks are provided for each stop.
Article updated on April 23, 2026

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Sommaire

 

Day 1 - Historic Nice and panoramic views of Cimiez

 

Nice and the Bay of Angels / photo by Aleksandar Todorovic/Shutterstock.com 

Nice and the Bay of Angels / photo by Aleksandar Todorovic/Shutterstock.com 

 

Planning a trip to Nice and the French Riviera? You’re in the right place. This guide will help you explore the best of the Côte d’Azur with confidence, from iconic seaside towns to hidden gems along the coast.
👉 Discover great options and plan your stay easily with the best travel deals on Expedia, including hotels and travel packages.

 

Presentation

 

Start your trip by discovering Nice, a city that combines Mediterranean charm and heritage. The Vieux-Nice, with its narrow streets and ochre facades, evokes an Italian past: until 1860, the city was still part of the kingdom of Piedmont-Sardinia. The Cours Saleya, renowned for its flower market, is a must-see place to breathe in the scents of jasmine and lavender. Higher up, the Colline du Château, although no fortress remains, offers a unique panorama over the Baie des Anges. In the afternoon, the Promenade des Anglais, laid out in the 19th century for British winterers, unveils its palm trees and Belle Époque facades. Finally, the Cimiez district brings together Roman heritage (ancient arenas, monastery) and artistic heritage with the Musée Matisse, housed in a 17th-century villa. This first day plunges you into the soul of the city and captures the diversity that makes up its identity.

 

Le Cours Saleya in Nice and its market / photo by Rostislav Glinsky/Shutterstock.com 

Le Cours Saleya in Nice and its market / photo by Rostislav Glinsky/Shutterstock.com

 

👉 By the way! What exactly is the French Riviera? Check out my comprehensive guide. 

 

This article may contain affiliate links. This does not affect the price for you, but it helps support the Monsieur de France website.

 

Unique activity

 

At the end of the day, rent an electric bike and ride along the Promenade des Anglais as the sun sets. The shifting colors of the sea and the building facades are perfect for photography enthusiasts.

Want to make your own perfume ? Is there anything more chic than creating your own perfume? At Atelier Molinard, we carry on a perfume-making tradition that began in Grasse in the late Middle Ages. You can learn the basics and even create your own fragrance. Starting at €50

👉The experience is here

 

Le Negresco on "the prom" / Photo chosen by monsieurdefrance.com: by Erich Westendarp from Pixabay

Le Negresco on "the prom" / Photo chosen by monsieurdefrance.com: by Erich Westendarp from Pixabay

 

Dinner

 

At 8pm, settle in around Place Garibaldi, the lively heart of the city, or on the side of Port Lympia, where terraces and local ambience mingle.

 

Access & transport

 

  • Nice-Ville station: Avenue Thiers, 06000 Nice - TER and TGV connections.

  • Tram L1 : stop Cathédrale - Vieille Ville, Place Garibaldi, 06300 Nice.

  • Tram L2 : stop Garibaldi - Le Château, Place Garibaldi, 06300 Nice.

  • Musée Matisse: 164 Avenue des Arènes de Cimiez, 06000 Nice.

  • TER/TGV station : SNCF Connect

  • Streetcar and bus network : Lignes d'Azur

 

Nice and its colors / photo by Reuben Teo/Shutterstock.com 

Nice and its colors / photo by Reuben Teo/Shutterstock.com 

 

 

Where to Stay in Nice

 

Budget option: ibis budget Nice Californie Lenval

Just a stone's throw from the Promenade des Anglais, this is a convenient option for staying in Nice without breaking the bank. Simple rooms, a convenient location, and quick access to the waterfront. Starting at €37 per night*
👉 Check availability at the ibis budget Nice Californie Lenval

Mid-range: Hotel Byakko Nice

A central location that’s ideal for exploring Nice on foot, close to the train station and convenient for getting around the Old Town, the beach, and shopping areas. A good balance of comfort and value.
👉 Check availability at the Hotel Byakko Nice

Luxury: Hôtel du Couvent Nice

An elegant and highly sought-after hotel housed in a restored former convent. Rare charm, top-of-the-line amenities, and a unique atmosphere in the heart of Old Nice. Starting at approximately €330 per night*.
👉 Check availability at the Hôtel du Couvent Nice

 

 

Day 2 - Villefranche-sur-Mer and Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat

 

Presentation

 

Saint Jean Cap Ferrat is a ... Cap. Du coup on peut en faire le tour / Photo choisi par monsieurdefrance.com : Depositphotos CezaryWojtkowski

Saint Jean Cap Ferrat is a ... Cap. Du coup on peut en faire le tour / Photo choisi par monsieurdefrance.com Depositphotos CezaryWojtkowski

 

Just a few minutes by train from Nice, Villefranche-sur-Mer is a real postcard setting. Its harbor, considered one of the most beautiful in the world, has always welcomed sailors and travelers alike. The port de la Darse, created in the 16th century by the Dukes of Savoy, bears witness to this long maritime history. The center, with its colorful facades and arched alleyways, retains a picturesque atmosphere. The plage des Marinières, long and sheltered, is ideal for a morning swimming break. After lunch, head for Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, a verdant peninsula renowned for its billionaires' villas and unspoilt coastline. The sentier du littoral offers a succession of coves, cliffs and spectacular views over the Mediterranean. It's the perfect place to experience the rugged beauty of the coast, just minutes from Nice.

 

Saint Jean Cap Ferrat has lovely beaches and a very easy view of the big blue / Photo chosen by monsieurdefrance.com :  Jérôme PROD'HOMME (c)

Saint Jean Cap Ferrat has lovely beaches and a very easy view of the big blue / Photo chosen by monsieurdefrance.com :  Jérôme PROD'HOMME (c)

 

Unique activity

 

Book a guided snorkeling tour in Villefranche Bay. The Posidonia seagrass beds and schools of colorful fish make this snorkeling trip a truly unique experience.

Why not take a short cruise? Spend an hour exploring Villefranche Bay by boat and see Nice and the French Riviera from the sea. Who knows—you might even spot a millionaire sunbathing! Starting at €50. 

👉The experience is here

 

Dinner

 

Dinner in Villefranche or Saint Jean or return to Nice for dinner in the Port district or around the Place du Pin, lively in the evening.

 

Villefranche Bay/ Photo chosen by Monsieur de France: depositphotos

Villefranche Bay/ Photo chosen by Monsieur de France: depositphotos

 

Access & transport

 

  • Villefranche-sur-Mer train station: Avenue Sadi Carnot, 06230 Villefranche-sur-Mer.

  • Plage des Marinières : Promenade des Marinières, 06230 Villefranche-sur-Mer.

  • Port de la Darse : 06230 Villefranche-sur-Mer.

  • Bus 15 : stop Masséna, Avenue Félix Faure, 06000 Nice → stop Port de Saint-Jean, Quai Lindbergh, 06230 Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat.

  • Sentier du Littoral : Quai Lindbergh, 06230 Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat.

  • Site TER : SNCF Connect

  • Bus 15 : Lignes d'Azur

 

Where to Stay in Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat

 

Budget option: Hôtel l’Oursin

Located at 1 Avenue Denis Séméria, 06230 Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, the Hôtel l’Oursin is a small, simple, and convenient hotel in the heart of the village, about 100 meters from the beaches. It’s a great option for staying right on the peninsula without paying the high rates of the cape’s luxury hotels. Rates generally range from €120 to €180 per night depending on the season.

👉 Check availability at Hôtel l’Oursin

Mid-range: La Villa Cap Ferrat Hotel & Spa

Located at 49 Avenue Denis Séméria, 06230 Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, this hotel offers an excellent base for exploring the cape in a comfortable setting with a pool and a relaxed atmosphere. It provides easy access to the harbor, restaurants, and seaside promenades. Prices generally range from €220 to €320 per night depending on the season.

👉 Check availability at La Villa Cap Ferrat Hotel & Spa

Luxury: Grand-Hôtel du Cap-Ferrat, A Four Seasons Hotel

Located at 71 Boulevard du Général de Gaulle, 06230 Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, this is one of the most legendary addresses on the entire French Riviera. Stunning gardens, ocean views, exceptional service, and historic prestige combine to create a Riviera experience of the highest caliber. Expect to pay at least €900 per night, and much more during peak season.

👉 Check availability at the Grand-Hôtel du Cap-Ferrat, A Four Seasons Hotel

 

 

Day 3 - Antibes and Cap d'Antibes

 

Antibes and its old town / Photo chosen by monsieurdefrance.com: pixabay

Antibes and its old town / Photo chosen by monsieurdefrance.com: pixabay

 

Presentation

A 20-minute train ride from Nice, Antibes reveals a different atmosphere, between Provencal traditions and maritime openness. The Vieille Ville, encircled by ramparts inherited from the Middle Ages and reinforced by Vauban, retains an authentic charm with its cobbled streets, shady squares and covered market. The Musée Picasso, housed in the Château Grimaldi, pays tribute to the artist who worked here in 1946, leaving over 60 works. The coastline is marked by the Cap d'Antibes, a rocky promontory covered in umbrella pines. The chemin des Douaniers, also known as the Tire-Poil trail, skirts the cliffs, offering transparent coves and panoramic views of the snow-covered Alps in winter. It's one of the most beautiful trails on the Côte d'Azur coastline.

 

The old center is rich in color and beautiful shops / Photo chosen by monsieurdefrance.com: depositphotos

The old center is rich in color and beautiful shops / Photo chosen by monsieurdefrance.com: depositphotos

 

Unique activity

 

Try sea kayaking from La Garoupe Beach: gliding along the water between coves and cliffs offers a different perspective on this legendary cape.

What an adventure parasailing is! Soar over the beach and the coast, 50 to 100 meters above the waves. What an experience! Starting at €100

👉The experience is here

 

The view of Antibes at night / Photo chosen by monsieurdefrance.com : Circumnavi via dépositphotos

The view of Antibes at night / Photo chosen by monsieurdefrance.com : Circumnavi via dépositphotos

 

Dinner

 

Evening at leisure: dinner in Antibes to enjoy the Provencal atmosphere, or return to Nice for a change of pace.

 

Access & transport

 

  • Gare d'Antibes : Place Pierre Semard, 06600 Antibes.

  • Musée Picasso: Place Mariejol, Château Grimaldi, 06600 Antibes.

  • Marché provençal : Cours Masséna, 06600 Antibes.

  • Plage de la Garoupe : Cap d'Antibes, 06160 Antibes.

  • Chemin des Douaniers : Departure from Plage de la Garoupe, 06160 Antibes.

  • Site TER : SNCF Connect

  • Bus Cap d'Antibes : Envibus Antibes

 

Le port Vauban et ses bâteaux incroyables / Photo choisie par monsieurdefrance.com : Lindasky76 via depositphotos

The Vauban port and its incredible boats / Photo chosen by monsieurdefrance.com : Lindasky76 via depositphotos

 

Where to Stay in Antibes

 

Budget-friendly: ibis budget Antibes Sophia Antipolis

This is a convenient and affordable option for staying in the Antibes area. The hotel is a good choice if you have your own transportation or if you’re primarily looking for an economical base from which to explore Antibes, Juan-les-Pins, and the surrounding area. Prices start at around €60 to €90 per night depending on the season.
👉 Check availability at the ibis budget Antibes Sophia Antipolis

Mid-range: Royal Antibes

Overlooking the sea and just a few minutes from the old town, the Royal Antibes is an excellent base for exploring the historic center, the waterfront, and Cap d’Antibes. It’s a great choice for a comfortable, well-located, and pleasant stay without paying the highest rates on the Riviera. Expect to pay between €160 and €250 per night depending on the season.
👉 Check availability at the Royal Antibes

Luxury: Hotel Juana

An iconic landmark in Juan-les-Pins, the Hôtel Juana charms guests with its Art Deco elegance, its quintessential Riviera atmosphere, and its immediate proximity to the sea. It’s a great choice for those seeking a chic, bright, and refined French Riviera experience. Rates generally start at €300 to €450 per night, with variations depending on the dates.
👉 Check availability at the Hôtel Juana

 

 

Day 4 - Cannes and the Lérins Islands

 

Presentation

 

Cannes / Photo chosen by Monsieur de France: depositphotos

Cannes / Photo chosen by Monsieur de France: depositphotos

 

Around 35 minutes by train from Nice, Cannes opens onto a world-famous waterfront: the Croisette, a promenade lined with palm trees, palaces and luxury boutiques. But beyond the glitz of the festival, Cannes retains an old-world charm in the Suquet district, perched on a hill overlooking the town. Its cobbled streets, Notre-Dame d'Espérance church and old castle are a reminder that Cannes was originally a fishing village. From the Vieux-Port, maritime shuttles take you to the Îles de Lérins. Ile Sainte-Marguerite is home to Fort Royal, infamous for locking up the Man in the Iron Mask, while Ile Saint-Honorât has been occupied since the 5th century by Cistercian monks who still produce wine. Between pine forests, coves and spiritual heritage, Lérins offers an unforgettable natural escape.

 

A select beach and a yacht approaching Cannes / Photo chosen by Monsieur de France: depositphotos

A select beach and a yacht approaching Cannes / Photo chosen by Monsieur de France: depositphotos

 

Unique activity

 

Join us for a wine tasting on Saint-Honorât Island, featuring wines crafted by the monks of the abbey.

How about lunch on the blue sea and a catamaran ride? A lunch cruise is a great idea! 

👉The experience is here

 

Dinner

 

At 8pm, feast your eyes on the Suquet district, overlooking the bay.

 

Access & transport

 

  • Gare de Cannes: 1 Place de la Gare, 06400 Cannes.

  • Isles de Lérins shuttles: Quai Laubeuf, Port de Cannes, 06400 Cannes.

  • Fort Royal (île Sainte-Marguerite): Îles de Lérins, 06400 Cannes.

  • Abbaye de Lérins (île Saint-Honorât): Îles de Lérins, 06400 Cannes.

  • Site TER : SNCF Connect

  • Sea shuttles : Trans Côte d'Azur

 

Where to Stay in Cannes

 

Budget option: ibis budget Cannes City Center

Located at 3 rue Mozart, 06400 Cannes, this hotel offers a simple and convenient option for staying in Cannes without breaking the bank. It is located about 700 meters from the Palais des Festivals and the beaches, which is about a ten-minute walk. Prices start at around €54 per night depending on the season. (all.accor.com)
👉 Check availability at the ibis budget Cannes Centre-Ville

Mid-range: Hôtel Montaigne & Spa - Downtown Cannes

Conveniently located in the center of Cannes, about a 5-minute walk from the Croisette, the Hôtel Montaigne & Spa is an excellent base for exploring the city on foot while enjoying superior comfort. Rates generally range from €130 to €220 per night depending on the season and events.
👉 Check availability at the Hôtel Montaigne & Spa - Cannes Centre

Luxury: Barrière Le Majestic Cannes Hotel

A legendary address on the Croisette, overlooking the sea and the Palais des Festivals, Le Majestic is one of Cannes’ most iconic hotels. People come here for the location, the prestige, and the quintessential Riviera experience. Expect to pay around $720 per night, a distinctly high-end price point, with significant variations depending on the dates, particularly during major events in Cannes. (Barrière Hotels)
👉 Check availability at the Barrière Le Majestic Cannes

 

 

Day 5 - Monaco and the Princely Rock

 

Presentation

 

Port view / Photo chosen by Monsieur de France :  by lolo de Pixabay

Port view / Photo chosen by Monsieur de France :  by lolo de Pixabay

 

The TER takes you to Monaco-Monte-Carlo in just over 20 minutes. Here, the scenery changes radically: modern skyscrapers rub shoulders with palaces and gardens. On the Roche princier, seat of power for centuries, you'll discover the Princely Palace and the cathédrale de Monaco, where Rainier III and Princess Grace are laid to rest. The jardins Saint-Martin, planted with pines and Mediterranean species, offer a haven of greenery with stunning sea views. In the afternoon, the Musée océanographique, founded by Prince Albert I, presents an exceptional collection of marine species and cetacean skeletons. Further down, the Casino de Monte-Carlo and Port Hercule embody the principality's social image, but also its history linked to the automobile and the legendary F1 Grand Prix.

 

Monaco is a global showcase for Luxury/ Photo chosen by Monsieur de France: by Hans de Pixabay

Monaco is a global showcase for Luxury/ Photo chosen by Monsieur de France: by Hans de Pixabay

 

Unique activity

 

Try a Formula 1 simulator to experience the thrill of a lap around the streets of Monaco.

How about a guided tour of Monaco in a Ferrari?

👉The experience is here

 

Dinner

 

Either in a restaurant in Monaco's old town, or back to Nice for dinner.

 

La releve de la garde à Monaco / Photo chosen by Monsieur de France: by Fabien de Pixabay

La releve de la garde à Monaco / Photo chosen by Monsieur de France: by Fabien de Pixabay

 

Access & transport

 

  • Monaco-Monte-Carlo train station: Place Sainte-Dévote, 98000 Monaco.

  • Palais princier: Place du Palais, 98015 Monaco.

  • Cathédrale de Monaco : 4 Rue Colonel Bellando de Castro, 98000 Monaco.

  • Musée océanographique: Avenue Saint-Martin, 98000 Monaco.

  • Site TER : SNCF Connect

  • Bus ZOU! 600 : ZOU! Southern Region Transport

 

 

Why not have a picnic on one of Nice's pebble beaches / Photo chosen by Monsieur de France: Pixabay

Why not have a picnic on one of Nice's pebble beaches / Photo chosen by Monsieur de France: Pixabay

 

Where to Stay in Monaco

 

On a budget: Novotel Monte-Carlo

Located at 16 Boulevard Princesse Charlotte, 98000 Monaco, the Novotel Monte-Carlo is one of the most affordable options for staying in the heart of the Principality without opting for a luxury hotel. The hotel is just a short walk from the train station, Casino Square, and the Grimaldi Forum, making it a very convenient base for exploring Monaco on foot. Rates generally range from around €250 to €350 per night, depending on the dates.
👉 Check availability at the Novotel Monte-Carlo

Mid-range: Boutique Hotel Miramar

Located at 1 Avenue JF Kennedy, 98000 Monaco, just above Port Hercule, the Boutique Hotel Miramar is an excellent choice for experiencing Monaco in a more intimate setting. With its ocean views, central location, and elegant atmosphere, it’s a great option for a comfortable stay without immediately opting for the top-tier hotels in Monte Carlo. Expect to pay between €300 and €450 per night, depending on the season.
👉 Check availability at the Boutique Hotel Miramar

Luxury: Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo

Located at the iconic Place du Casino, 98000 Monaco, the Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo is one of the most renowned hotels on the entire Riviera. Guests come here for the prestige, the service, the exceptional location, and the ultimate luxury experience that Monaco has to offer. Rates generally start at €800 per night and can be much higher depending on the season, particularly during major events.
👉 Check availability at the Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo

 

 

Day 6 - Saint-Paul-de-Vence and Vence

 

Presentation

 

Saint Paul de Vence on its spur dominating the landscape / Photo chosen by monsieurdefrance.com: depositphotos.

Saint Paul de Vence on its spur dominating the landscape / Photo chosen by monsieurdefrance.com: depositphotos.

 

Leaving the coast for the hinterland, you'll discover two art villages. Saint-Paul-de-Vence, perched on a hill, seduces with its ramparts, art galleries and cobbled streets lined with stone houses. Many 20th-century artists, such as Chagall who is buried here, chose this village for inspiration. Not far away, the Fondation Maeght brings together a unique collection of modern and contemporary art with works by Giacometti, Miró and Calder, showcased in a sculpture garden. Just a few kilometers away, Vence unveils its Romanesque cathedral, medieval ramparts and lively squares. The contrast with the coast is striking: here, the atmosphere is quieter and more intimate, ideal for feeling the spirit of Provence.

 

At Saint Paul de Vence we come across art in the most unexpected places / Photo Jérôme PROD'HOMME (c)

At Saint Paul de Vence we come across art in the most unexpected places / Photo Jérôme PROD'HOMME (c)

 

Unique activity

 

Join a perfume workshop or a beginner's watercolor painting class, organized by local studios.

How about a short cooking class with a renowned French chef?

👉The experience is here

 

Saint Paul de Vence is brimming with small artisan boutiques and art galleries / Photo Jérôme Prod'homme (c)

Saint Paul de Vence is brimming with small artisan boutiques and art galleries / Photo Jérôme Prod'homme (c)

 

Dinner

 

Return to Nice for dinner at 8 pm.

 

Access & transport

 

  • Cagnes-sur-Mer train station: Place de la Gare, 06800 Cagnes-sur-Mer.

  • Bus ZOU! 655 : stop Gare SNCF Cagnes-sur-Mer → stop Saint-Paul Village, 06570 Saint-Paul-de-Vence.

  • Fondation Maeght: 623 Chemin des Gardettes, 06570 Saint-Paul-de-Vence.

  • Cathédrale de Vence : Place Clemenceau, 06140 Vence.

  • Site TER : SNCF Connect

  • Bus 655 : ZOU! Southern Region Transport

 

 

La grande bleue à Nice / Photo chosen by Monsieurdefrance.com:  by confused_me from Pixabay

La grande bleue à Nice / Photo chosen by Monsieurdefrance.com:  by confused_me from Pixabay

 

Where to Stay in Saint-Paul-de-Vence

 

On a budget: Le Hameau

Located at 528 Route de la Colle, 06570 Saint-Paul-de-Vence, Le Hameau is a charming inn housed in an 18th-century farmhouse with views of the valley and the village. It’s a wonderful option for staying in Saint-Paul-de-Vence in a quiet, character-filled setting without the high prices of the most expensive luxury hotels. Prices generally start at around €197 per night depending on the season.
👉 Check availability at Le Hameau

Mid-range: Les Messugues Hotel

Located at 76 Impasse des Messugues, 06570 Saint-Paul-de-Vence, the Hôtel Les Messugues is an excellent base for exploring the area in a lush, green setting. With a swimming pool, olive trees, a peaceful atmosphere, and proximity to the village, it’s a delightful place to stay for a comfortable getaway near Saint-Paul-de-Vence. Rates generally range from around €190 to €220 per night depending on the season.
👉 Check availability at Hôtel Les Messugues

Luxury: Hotel Le Saint Paul

Located in the medieval village of Saint-Paul-de-Vence, the Hotel Le Saint Paul is one of the finest places in the area for a more refined stay. Stunning views, an elegant atmosphere, and the rare charm of a hotel right in the heart of the village make it an ideal upscale option for enjoying the more chic and peaceful French Riviera countryside. Prices generally start at around €300 to €450 per night, with significant variations depending on the dates.
👉 Check availability at Hotel Le Saint Paul

 

 

Day 7 - Beaulieu-sur-Mer and Èze-bord-de-Mer

 

Presentation

 

Eze is perched more than 400 meters above the waves / Photo chosen by monsieurdefrance.com: depositphotos.

Eze is perched more than 400 meters above the waves / Photo chosen by monsieurdefrance.com: depositphotos.

 

To round off your stay, take the TER to Beaulieu-sur-Mer (10 minutes from Nice). The elegant, tranquil town boasts two harbors and the famous Villa Kérylos, a unique reconstruction of an ancient Greek dwelling, commissioned by archaeologist Théodore Reinach. Its marble, mosaics and frescoes immerse visitors in the Hellenistic art of living. After lunch, head down one station to Èze-sur-Mer. You can enjoy the beach, or take the sentier Nietzsche, a sporty 1 h 30 climb to the perched village of Èze. There, medieval alleyways lead to the Jardin exotique, overlooking the sea at 429 meters above sea level. Cacti and agaves create a spectacular backdrop.

 

Original activity

 

Try your hand at paddle in Beaulieu Bay, a fun and sporty way to discover the coast.

 

The garden is embellished with works of art / Photo chosen by monsieurdefrance.com: Jérôme Prod'homme

The garden is embellished with works of art / Photo chosen by monsieurdefrance.com: Jérôme Prod'homme

 

Dinner

 

Last dinner in Nice, in the Port district or Place du Pin.

 

Access & transport

 

  • Beaulieu-sur-Mer train station: Avenue du Général de Gaulle, 06310 Beaulieu-sur-Mer.

  • Villa Kérylos : Impasse Gustave Eiffel, 06310 Beaulieu-sur-Mer.

  • Gare d'Èze-sur-Mer : Avenue de la Liberté, 06360 Èze.

  • Jardin exotique d'Èze : Rue du Château, 06360 Èze.

  • Site TER : SNCF Connect

 

Provence rosé is the great wine specialty of the Côte d'Azur / Photo chosen by Monsieur de France:  by Karolina Grabowska de Pixabay

Provence rosé is the great wine specialty of the Côte d'Azur / Photo chosen by Monsieur de France:  by Karolina Grabowska de Pixabay

 

 

Accommodation on the Côte d'Azur 

 

The old Nice / photo by Sergey Novikov/Shutterstock.com

The old Nice / photo by Sergey Novikov/Shutterstock.com

 

Around Nice, a number of communes offer low-cost accommodation while remaining well connected. Villefranche-sur-Mer (TER 6 min), Beaulieu-sur-Mer (TER 10 min) and Saint-Laurent-du-Var (streetcar L2 airport-center) offer charm and quick access. Further west, Cagnes-sur-Mer (TER 15 min) is ideal for also reaching Saint-Paul and Vence. If you have a car, you can even drive further into the hinterland for a quiet evening. 

 

Access to the Côte d'Azur

 

The Villa Rothschild in Saint Jean Cap Ferrat, its architecture and breathtaking view / Photo chosen by monsieurdefrance.com: CAHKT via depositphotos.

The Villa Rothschild in Saint Jean Cap Ferrat, its architecture and breathtaking view / Photo chosen by monsieurdefrance.com: CAHKT via depositphotos.

 

From Paris

  • By train: TGV INOUI Paris-Gare de Lyon → Nice (5h40 to 6h). SNCF Connect

  • By plane : Frequent flights Paris (CDG/ORY) → Nice (NCE). Streetcar L2 direct airport-center (25-30 min). Lignes d'Azur

  • By car: 930 km via A6/A7/A8, 9-10 h drive.

 

From abroad

  • USA: seasonal direct flights from New York (JFK), Newark (EWR) and Washington-Dulles (IAD).

  • Germany: direct flights Frankfurt and Munich → Nice (1h30-1h45).

  • Mexico: no direct flights; connections via Paris, Madrid, Amsterdam or Frankfurt.

  • Netherlands : direct flights Amsterdam (AMS) → Nice (2h10).

 

FAQ: The Perfect 7-Day Getaway on the French Riviera

 

What is the best itinerary for visiting the French Riviera in 7 days?

The best 7-day itinerary combines Nice, Èze, Menton, Antibes, Cannes, and either a hilltop village or Monaco. This allows you to enjoy the sea, iconic towns, scenic views, and the Riviera atmosphere without rushing. Nice is often the best base from which to easily explore these destinations.

 

Où dormir pour une semaine sur la Côte d’Azur ?

Pour un séjour de 7 jours, Nice est souvent le choix le plus pratique grâce au train, à l’aéroport et à sa position centrale. Antibes / Juan-les-Pins conviennent très bien pour un séjour plus balnéaire, tandis que Menton plaît à ceux qui cherchent plus de calme et de charme méditerranéen.

 

Faut-il une voiture pour visiter la Côte d’Azur en 7 jours ?

Non, ce n’est pas indispensable. Entre Nice, Monaco, Cannes, Antibes et Menton, le train fonctionne très bien pour un séjour sans voiture. Une voiture devient surtout utile pour explorer les villages perchés, l’arrière-pays ou certaines plages plus isolées.

 

Quelle est la meilleure période pour passer 7 jours sur la Côte d’Azur ?

Les meilleures périodes sont souvent mai, juin, septembre et début octobre. Le climat reste très agréable, la mer peut être belle en fin d’été et il y a généralement moins de foule qu’en plein juillet-août.

 

Nice ou Cannes pour une semaine sur la Côte d’Azur ?

Nice est généralement meilleure pour un premier séjour : plus centrale, plus vivante, plus pratique sans voiture et plus complète culturellement. Cannes convient davantage à ceux qui recherchent une ambiance plus chic, plages privées, Croisette et séjours glamour.

 

Que voir absolument sur la Côte d’Azur en 7 jours ?

Les incontournables sont souvent Nice, la vieille ville de Menton, Èze, Antibes, Cannes, la mer Méditerranée, un village perché et une excursion vers Monaco ou les îles de Lérins. Ce mélange donne un excellent aperçu de la Riviera française.

 

Combien coûte une semaine sur la Côte d’Azur ?

The budget depends heavily on the season. If you book early, a week’s stay can be reasonably priced when you travel by train and stay in simple hotels and eat at a variety of restaurants. During peak season, prices rise significantly, especially in Nice, Cannes, Saint-Tropez, and at seaside hotels.

 

The French Riviera with the family: where to go for a 7-day trip?

For families, NiceAntibes / Juan-les-Pins, and Menton are often the best choices. They offer beaches, promenades, pleasant town centers, easy day trips, and a more relaxed pace than an overly packed itinerary.

 

Can you visit the French Riviera without speaking French?

Yes. In major cities and tourist areas such as Nice, Cannes, Monaco, and Antibes, English is widely understood in many hotels, restaurants, and attractions. A few words of French are always appreciated.

 

Is 7 days enough time to explore the French Riviera?

Yes, 7 days is plenty of time for a wonderful first trip. You’ll have time to see the main sights, enjoy the sea, visit several towns, and experience the local way of life. To explore the inland areas or the Var region further, ten days or more is even better.

 

Learn more:

 


Jérôme Prod'homme Expert in French heritage, gastronomy, and tourism. Check out all my discoveries at monsieur-de-france.com.

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Jérôme Prod'homme

Jérôme Prod'homme

 Jérôme Prod'homme is Monsieur de France.
He is a French author, historian by passion, and recognized specialist in French culture, heritage, and tourism. For many years, he has written for French media, cultural magazines, radio, and editorial projects focused on the history of France, historical figures, cultural traditions, religious heritage, and regional gastronomy

As the creator of Monsieur de France, he shares expert insights and documented knowledge about France: from medieval kings and cathedrals to royal palaces, UNESCO sites, charming villages, and authentic local cuisine. His articles are based on historical research, verified sources, and a real love of transmitting knowledge. 

Jérôme lives in France, travels extensively through its regions, and personally explores the places he recommends — ensuring first-hand experience. Through his writing, he aims to make French history accessible, highlight real stories and local heritage, and guide visitors to the most meaningful and authentic French destinations

Monsieur de France is more than a travel guide: it is a cultural bridge for readers around the world who want to truly understand France — its history, its identity, its symbols, and its living heritage. 

Jérôme Prod'homme

Jérôme Prod'homme

 Jérôme Prod'homme is Monsieur de France.
He is a French author, historian by passion, and recognized specialist in French culture, heritage, and tourism. For many years, he has written for French media, cultural magazines, radio, and editorial projects focused on the history of France, historical figures, cultural traditions, religious heritage, and regional gastronomy

As the creator of Monsieur de France, he shares expert insights and documented knowledge about France: from medieval kings and cathedrals to royal palaces, UNESCO sites, charming villages, and authentic local cuisine. His articles are based on historical research, verified sources, and a real love of transmitting knowledge. 

Jérôme lives in France, travels extensively through its regions, and personally explores the places he recommends — ensuring first-hand experience. Through his writing, he aims to make French history accessible, highlight real stories and local heritage, and guide visitors to the most meaningful and authentic French destinations

Monsieur de France is more than a travel guide: it is a cultural bridge for readers around the world who want to truly understand France — its history, its identity, its symbols, and its living heritage.